Michigan Center outscored East Jackson 27-6 in the second and third quarters combined, transforming a 7-7 tie into a comfortable fourth quarter for the Cardinals (6-4, 4-3 Cascades).

"We had some good looks in the first, but we just didn't make them," Michigan Center coach Joe Lusk said. "We turned up the pressure and forced some turnovers as the game went on."

Kristin Montecinos scored 11 to go with six rebounds and five assists. Branham, a Lawrence Tech recruit, also had two steals and six rebounds while playing more shooting guard than she is accustomed to.

"Maegan is 5-foot-10 and can get to the basket," Lusk said. "She can also shoot the 3, but it's a battle to get her to look for her shot first. She is always looking out for her teammates."

Michigan Center will look for its second win of the season against Cascades rival Vandercook Lake on Friday.

Dominique Whitehead led East Jackson (4-4, 3-3 Cascades) with seven points and four rebounds.